Between their afterschool activities, social lives, homework and school classes, today’s youngsters lead very busy lives. Yes, you try to make sure they brush their teeth twice a day, but their overall dental health probably doesn’t top their list of priorities. Parents need to explain to their kids who are old enough to understand the importance of controlling the buildup of tartar. 

Moms and dads who want this area’s best pediatric dental practice look to the office of Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry. We’re dedicated to providing your child with the topmost standard of personalized dental services.

Before you can explain to your kids the importance of following a thorough flossing and brushing routine to ward off tartar, you, too, need to know the facts. 

Everyone’s mouth has bacteria. When bacteria mingle with proteins and food particles, the mixture produces dental plaque. This sticky film eats away at enamel and infiltrates your gum line. Plaque hardens, becomes tartar and spreads over each tooth. Only a dentist can remove it. 

It’s easy for your kids to eliminate plaque before it turns into tartar. Here’s what to tell them. 

Tartar is the impetus behind cavities, tooth decay, gum disease and even the loss of teeth.

Give your teeth a thorough brushing twice a day for at least two minutes each time. A quick, haphazard session is not sufficient. 

Use a soft-bristled brush whose head is appropriate for the size of your mouth. A large head for small arches will only skim over much of your dental real estate. And be persistent about reaching behind each tooth and getting to those back molars. 

Manual or powered? Choose the type of toothbrush you are most comfortable using. Whichever one you pick must have the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval. Use toothpaste that includes fluoride, focuses on tartar control and, again, has the ADA stamp of approval. 

Flossing banishes food particles and plaque from between your teeth and under your gums. 

Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry’sfriendly team is eager to help your child feel comfortable and relaxed while receiving the best dental care. Please don’t hesitate to call us to schedule an appointment.